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FBI looking into threat made against LA metro station

LA County Sheriff Jim McDonnell: This could be real, it could be a hoax

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Updated: 6:51 AM CST Dec 6, 2016

FBI looking into threat made against LA metro station

LA County Sheriff Jim McDonnell: This could be real, it could be a hoax

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Updated: 6:51 AM CST Dec 6, 2016

Local and federal law enforcement agencies increased transit security Tuesday after receiving information about what appeared to be a possible bombing threat targeted at Metro Red Line’s Universal City station, reported the Los Angeles Times.

An anonymous person reportedly warned of the potential attack and shared it through information on a tip line abroad, said Deidre Fike, the assistant director in charge of the FBI's office in Los Angeles.

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The tip’s origin was not made public but Fike confirmed it was sent in English.

Los Angeles authorities and the FBI held a press conference and said the threat was considered specific and imminent but that investigators are still looking into its credibility.

“This could be real, it could be a hoax,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Jim McDonnell. “We’re asking the public to stay calm and vigilant.”

LAPD Police Chief Charlie Beck said while authorities receive tips about threats “constantly” this one prompted a quick response because it was “very specific.”

“We don’t have the time to vet this threat in the way we would like,” Beck said. “This one we had to move quickly on.”

The LA Times reported that Beck said riders should be aware that increased presence of uniformed police, K-9 units and sheriff’s deputies would be searching the area for explosives.

McDonnell said that undercover operations would also be taking place, reported the LA Times.

Even Mayor Eric Garcetti prepared the public and warned there would be random bag searches and that he would ride the Red Line Tuesday Morning from Universal City.

“My advice is right now, everyone should go about their normal day [Tuesday]” Garcetti said. “People may see a heightened security presence … but don’t let those frighten you.”

Chief Scott Edson, who oversees counter-terrorism as head of the Sheriff’s Department’s Homeland Security Division, implored passengers to report any suspicious activity.